Mentor Coordinator Report
Stories & Quotes To Share:
Pushing the comfort zone: Last week I checked in with a match and found a junior student practicing a speech with her mentor as an attentive audience: she decided to run for an ASB office! She had never done anything like this before and was quite nervous. Her mentor listened to her practice, praised her efforts, and remarked on her courage. Many times, students lack confidence to try new things or push beyond their comfort zones, especially if they are shy or more introverted. Whether it is asking for help in a class, trying a sport, auditioning for a musical, or joining a club, mentors can really help encourage students and grow their confidence.
With you until graduation: Spring means registration time for next year’s classes and updating post high school plans. One sophomore boy was talking about a GED program and didn’t see why he should finish high school. After a conversation with his mentor, they went together to talk with his school counselor about his options. Between the mentor and the counselor, they had a great pep talk with the young man and emphasized some of the CTE classes he would be able to take and enjoy while staying at LHS. The mentor, who has known him since 7th grade, stated: “Remember, I’m planning to be with you here through graduation!” The counselor was so glad they came in together, telling me that the mentor’s support will help keep him in school and moving forward.
“They have a great relationship”: Last week one of my students had surgery and missed a few days of school, including her mentor meeting that week. I wasn’t aware of all the details or when she would be back, so I reached out to her mom for an update. In the process, I asked if it was alright to share some details with the mentor who I knew was concerned. The parent replied: “I appreciate you passing this along. [My daughter] and [her mentor] have a great relationship. I’m sure she would want her to have an update.” Mentors don’t typically have much contact with parents, but this mom certainly knew how much her daughter appreciated the mentor’s support and had heard positive things.
Highlights:
Highlights from this month:
• New Mentor Orientation: March 4
• March Mentor Equipping with Mike Black 38 attended; very positive comments
• 72 matches; 2 waitlisted
Upcoming:
Upcoming:
• Pair photos and mentee interviews in the month of April
• Saturday Academic Support: April 19
• Celebration Boat trip May 22
Number of Current Matches: 72
Submitted by Lisa Reynolds – ReynoldsL@lynden.wednet.edu